Norman Lear Is a ‘Born Again American’

Posted on Jan 2, 2012

He fought a war against Hitler, gave us some of the best television ever and founded People for the American Way, so Norman Lear knows something about getting the job done. In this stirring editorial, the producer challenges us to get on board the Occupy train and fight for the American dream.

Norman Lear in the Los Angeles Times:

I was recently shown a picture from one of the Occupy protests taking place across the country. It featured a young woman surrounded by police. She was the only protester in the picture, but she didn’t seem intimidated. All by herself, up against the police barricade, she held a handwritten sign saying simply “I am a born again American.”

I’ve never met this woman, but I think I know exactly what she’s feeling.

[Later]

To those many millions of Americans whose guts tell them the Occupy movement is on to something but aren’t the sort to camp out or protest in the street, I say find another way to let your voice be heard in the new year. Work with others who share your passion for equal opportunity and equal justice for all Americans, and find ways to channel outrage into productive action. I’m betting you’ll find, as I have over my nearly four score plus 10, that you’ll form some of the most rewarding relationships and have some of the most meaningful experiences of your life.

I have always admired Norman Lear. Here he gives us advice that every American should adhere to and find the action to take to support the protest going on across the country. These people are RIGHT. They are fighting a peaceful fight for all of us. It is valid and it is necessary. Americans have been quiet and complacent too long. If ever we are to be heard it is NOW!

I am a disabled person and have wracked my brain attempting to figure a way to join the march. Unable to walk any distance and tied to a medication schedule, I am pretty much out.

However, I can write whatever may be helpful to these groups and I would gladly do so. If anyone has information as to how to go about it, please contact me through Truthdig. I thank you.